The west coast defined as the area between Puttalam and Mt Lavinia south of Colombo is the most populous and the most prosperous coastal strip in the country. Travelling along the west coast of the island is one of the best ways to explore Sri Lanka as well as engaging in a lot of activities. Here’s more about it.
Getting Around
The country’s busiest International airport and its busiest road and rail network are along the west coast. This enables easy access to any point along the coast and to furthest corners of the region.
Muthurajawela Wetland
The largest saline peat bog in the country extends from the Negombo Lagoon, which is located in close proximity to many hotels near Colombo airport the likes of Heritance Negombo all the way to the Kelani River near Colombo. Guided boat tours are available in the 1777 ha from the northern section that was declared a sanctuary in 1996.
Whale Watching
The sea off Kalpitiya Peninsula 150 km north of Colombo has Sri Lanka’s largest coral reef. Large pods of spinner dolphins are regular visitors and migrating whales are seen 9 nautical miles off its coast between December and April.
Dutch Canal
Take a trip in the 17th century Hamilton Canal a European style waterway. Enjoy views of old houses, shops, boat yards and coconut groves.
Sightseeing
Historic attractions abound along the west coast as this is where many visitors made landfall. The 17th century Dutch Fort by Negombo lagoon, ancient churches, temples and mosques, Colombo’s, colonial architectural heritage and the country’s largest museum are here.
Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+
